Targeted consultation on the co-ordinated introduction of 5G networks in Europe

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The purpose of the consultation is to identify opportunities for a coordinated introduction of 5G networks in Europe, and assess elements of a 5G Action Plan for the timely deployment of the planned infrastructure as of 2020.

Context

There is increasing evidence that the ultimate objective for the deployment of 5G communications will not be limited to upgrading the existing infrastructure to a more performant one. It is also about providing a truly interoperable global "platform" to enable network operators, several industries and the public sector to "invent" new services, and in some cases to "re-invent" themselves entirely. 5G will also build on the already on-going investments in LTE, in WiFi, in low-power networks, in a very high capacity communications networks, including fibre and satellite. The emerging vision is that 5G will allow these technologies to interoperate and form ubiquitous and programmable digital platforms, exploiting new features such as ultra-high reliability, security, speed and capacity, while aiming at reducing energy consumption.

From an economic and societal perspective, 5G is a major opportunity to improve the competitiveness of European industry. It has the potential to create new digital ecosystems where networks act as platforms for new, specialised services.

The sectors identified in various parts of the world as the most likely to benefit from 5G connectivity are:

Automotive

Health

Smart factories & logistics

Energy

Media

Entertainment

5G should improve the value chain processes across those industries, making the economy more competitive, resilient, productive, and bringing more value to society. This view is outlined in the paper of the Commission's 5G Public-Private Partnership (2016). It was set up to support 5G innovation and industry competitiveness, and showcase how 5G will empower vertical industries that will use enhanced connectivity to digitise.

Commissioner G.H. Oettinger responsible for the Digital Economy & Society outlined the importance of an EU wide deployment of 5G networks from 2020. That will leverage the take up of 5G standards at national level, and boost the competitiveness of European industry. Europe needs a consistent approach for the deployment of 5G infrastructures across the 28 EU countries if it to have a EU "home market" for 5G products and services.

Transparency

In the survey you will be asked whether you are responding as an individual or representing the views of an organisation. Responding organisations should register in the Transparency Register.

We publish the submissions of non-registered organisations separately from those of registered ones.

Replies & next steps

We shall publish all contributions to the consultation unless non-publication is specifically requested in the general information section of the questionnaire.

A short summary of the consultation results will be published on this page 1 month after the consultation closes. We shall issue a report with the qualitative analysis of the contributions in due course.

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